FAA May Relax Electronic Device Usage Rules During Takeoff And Landing

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may soon allow passengers to leave their devices powered on during take-offs and landing.

An advisory panel is set to recommend that the FAA allow phones, tablets, and other devices to be used during all parts of a passengers travels.

Currently, the FAA doesn’t allow electronic devices to be used during low-altitude parts of flight, altitudes that include take off and landing.

The FAA is also considering expanded the window in which customers can take advantage of their own 3G or LTE connections.

The panel will issue its recommendations in September, and the FAA will announce its decision at a later currently undisclosed time.

The FAA has come under fire for years regarding its rules for electronics use. Reformists constantly note that electronic interference has been proven not to be a problem through various studies.

New York Times technology columnist Nick Bilton wrote late last:

“The agency has no proof that electronic devices can harm a plane’s avionics, but it still perpetuates such claims, spreading irrational fear among millions of fliers.”

As an increasing number of consumers begin to relay on smartphones, tablets, and other portable devices, the FAA has continued to receive negative feedback for its aging rules against electronic use.

While consumers may be able to pull out their smartphones and tablets, it’s likely that rules against having keeping out laptops and other larger gadgets will be kept in place. Currently, airlines require larger devices to be stowed in the overhead bins or under the passenger’s seat.

Do you think the FAA needs to relax its rules against electronic device use during takeoff and landing?